Letter: 'God' in hearts, not on Courthouse

I read in the paper that many churches are supporting the addition of “In God We Trust” to our courthouse. This reminds me of God's demand that his people not worship graven images. The words are a modern version of this worship of something other than God. Putting so much energy and importance into a public display suggests misplaced worship.

Comment

Oakridger - Oak Ridge, TN

Writer

Posted Mar. 4, 2013 at 7:08 PM
Updated Mar 4, 2013 at 7:10 PM

Posted Mar. 4, 2013 at 7:08 PM
Updated Mar 4, 2013 at 7:10 PM

Oak Ridge, Tenn.

To the Editor:

I read in the paper that many churches are supporting the addition of "In God We Trust" to our courthouse. This reminds me of God's demand that his people not worship graven images. The words are a modern version of this worship of something other than God. Putting so much energy and importance into a public display suggests misplaced worship.

In the New Testament Jesus says "by their fruits you shall know them." I believe the emphasis in the New Testament is on carrying "in God we trust" in our hearts and living in relationship with our neighbors as Jesus has commanded.

Although this kind of misplaced religious fervor has resulted in religious slogans being placed on money or in the pledge, being true to the original intent of our Constitution would mean just leaving it off altogether and allowing our people of faith to pursue their religion, or lack thereof, without comment by our civil institutions.